This project aims at modeling the magnetic topologies and accretion processes of pre-main sequence low-mass (T Tauri) stars, monitored with the SPIRou near-infrared spectropolarimeter at the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT) since 2019 in the framework of the SPIRou Large Programs. The goal is to analyze existing and future SPIRou data for a number of T Tauri stars of various masses, ages and accretion rates, to (i) model the spectropolarimetric data with ZDI, reconstruct the evolving stellar magnetic topologies and characterize the magnetospheric accretion processes taking place between the inner accretion disk and the stellar surface, and (ii) study the radial velocity curves and filter out activity to unveil and characterize potential close-in massive planets.
Forthcoming observations will also include, in addition to SPIRou near-infrared spectra, optical spectra simultaneously collected with the ESPaDOnS spectropolarimeter at CFHT, further broadening the panel of available diagnostics for both projects. The work will take place at IRAP with Drs JF Donati and C Moutou, starting Q4 2026 (preferably) or Q1 2027.
IRAP, PS2E stellar physics / exoplanet group
Requirements
- Research Field: Astronomy
- Education Level: PhD or equivalent
- Languages: FRENCH
- Level: Basic
- Years of Research Experience: None
Additional Information
Eligibility criteria
In addition to a PhD in astrophysics, the candidates must have a solid background in stellar spectropolarimetry and / or velocimetry to efficiently analyze spectra collected with SPIRou and ESPaDOnS.
Further information: 2-year contract, renewable for 1 year
The start date is scheduled for 1 January 2027 and may be adjusted by a few months depending on the availability of the successful candidate.
The candidates should provide by 2026 September 30 via the careers portal a motivation letter (maximum of two pages) and a CV (maximum of two pages) and the following documents (PDF only, via a file server):
- a description of past and current research statements (maximum of five pages)
- a publication list,
- 3 reference letters sent by the mentors (same deadline)
to Drs JF Donati (jean-francois.donati@cnrs.fr) and C Moutou (claire.moutou@cnrs.fr).
Short-listed candidates will be invited for an on-line interview ~2 weeks after the deadline.
